Beadniks is a
franchise.While I own the store and
inventory, Sally Roesler helped me set it up.She introduced me to a design company to design the store layout and
gave me a list of trusted vendors, to include Dakota Stones.I do all of the buying and store management,
but she’s there if I have questions or would like input.

What made you decide to open a bead store?

I have been in retail since I was 16.I was a Store Manager for Target Stores and a
District Manager for Shopko and Kohls.I
had a brain tumor a few years back and decided that life was too short not to
enjoy what you do for a living.I
combined my retail experience with my passion for jewelry making.I love working with our customers and store
staff, they have become very good friends.I also enjoy finding unique things to add to our inventory.

Do you have a specific product that your store is known for?

We are known for our unique beads from around the
world.We have gemstones for every
budget and we have a selection that appeals to all age groups and genders.More than a quarter of our customers are
male.Our organic table is one of our
customer favorites, featuring beads made of wood, bone, horn, tagua nuts and
more.We hear from customers all the
time that they love our selection.

Do you offer classes? What is your most popular class?

We do offer classes.Our most popular class is “It’s A Wrap” .

We teach the technique for making the popular wrap
bracelet.Our “It’s A Wrap” class is so
popular because our method allows for a symmetrical weave.The silk cord on both sides of the bead are
angled downward, instead having one side angled and one side straight, as in
the ladder stitch.

What do you think are some of the biggest change in bead trends in the last 5 or 10 years?

Use of cord in jewelry designs has increased a great deal
in the last year or so.In response,
we now carry several colors of leather, waxed cotton, waxed linen, Chinese
knotting cord, hemp and paracord.

As an artist and not just a bead store owner, what is your favorite material/style that you use?

I enjoy working
with wire and chain.I have to admit
that I have jumped right on the cord trend.I bought a “Knotty Do It All” tool and use it often.

Do you have any other passions/hobbies outside of beading?

Owning a bead store in this economy consumes my time, but
I do like to draw, paint and make greeting cards.